Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos Sector Command, has confirmed a serious road traffic crash that occurred at about 09:30hrs on Sunday, 19th April, 2026, along the Ogunnusi road, Ojodu, specifically by Omole Gate before Chicken Republic.

According to the press statement signed by SRC Elizabeth Oluwadamilola Jayeola, Sector Public Education Officer, the crash, which involved a Toyota commercial bus with Reg. No: KSF260YK was attributed to suspected brake failure.

A total of 18 persons were involved in the incident, comprising 2 males and 16 females. Six (6) occupants sustained varying degrees of injuries, while no fatality was recorded.

FRSC operatives responded promptly, arriving at the crash scene within 2 minutes of notification from the Lagos Sector Command. The injured victims were immediately rescued and taken to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre (LASAEC) for medical attention.

Personnel of the Corps, in collaboration with other emergency responders, are currently on ground managing traffic and ensuring orderliness around the scene.

The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Kehinde G. Hamzat, reiterated the importance of regular vehicle maintenance—particularly the brake system—and urged all motorists to ensure their vehicles are fully roadworthy before embarking on any journey.

The Nigeria Customs Service has celebrated Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun, following her remarkable achievement of obtaining a commercial multi-engine pilot license in the United States of America.

The ceremony, organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, brought together senior officers, management staff, and colleagues to honour her for breaking new ground in the service. Balogun’s feat marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service, a field previously dominated by men.

Speaking during the celebration, the Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs, Captain Kuhi Mbaya, described Balogun’s journey as inspiring and transformative.

“Our officer, Nafisat Balogun, has transitioned from being a cabin attendant to a fully-fledged commercial pilot. This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” he said.

Mbaya noted that her accomplishment sets a precedent and reflects the evolving opportunities within the service.

“For the first time, we now have a female pilot in the NCS. She has set a record, and it is important that we celebrate and recognise this milestone,” he added.

He further encouraged women to pursue their ambitions without fear, stressing that barriers have been broken.

“This achievement shows that there are no limits. The glass ceiling has been shattered, and with determination and consistency, more women can achieve their dreams,” Mbaya said.

He also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support for gender inclusion within the service.

In her response, Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Balogun expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and support from her superiors and colleagues.

“I am truly honoured and humbled by this warm reception. This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and belief shown in me,” she said.

Balogun added that her achievement was made possible by the backing of the service’s leadership.

“I sincerely appreciate the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire management team for their invaluable support. This achievement stands as a testament to that encouragement,” she noted.

She reaffirmed her commitment to excellence and service, pledging to continue making the organisation proud.

“I promise to continue to serve with dedication, integrity, and professionalism,” she said.

Colleagues at the event also expressed pride and admiration for her accomplishment, describing it as a source of motivation for other officers, especially women, to strive for excellence and pursue careers in specialised fields.

Many congratulatory messages highlighted her resilience, discipline, and determination, noting that her success has opened new opportunities within the service.

The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), an independent body of the Nigerian Navy, has declared that Nigeria’s blue economy ambitions must now transition from policy conversations to measurable action, as it formally closed its three-day Executive Programme on Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy in Apapa, Lagos.

IMION stated that the high-level programme, which commenced on Wednesday, April 15, and concluded on April 17, delivered a deeply engaging and intellectually rewarding platform that drew robust participation from across the maritime ecosystem.

The institute emphasised that the depth of discourse, quality of contributions, and diversity of stakeholders underscored the growing national urgency around unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s marine and coastal resources.

IMION noted that the integration of virtual participation significantly expanded the reach of the programme, reinforcing its strategic vision to leverage technology in positioning itself as Nigeria’s centre of excellence for maritime affairs.

According to IMION, the programme traversed critical themes including maritime security, ocean governance, environmental sustainability, and energy security, all framed within the broader architecture of the blue economy.

The institute stressed that discussions throughout the programme interrogated both opportunities and constraints, while advancing innovative approaches anchored on collaboration among government, academia, industry, and civil society in line with the Triple Helix model.

IMION declared that a central takeaway from the engagement was unmistakable: no single institution can drive the blue economy agenda alone, as success depends on sustained cooperation, strategic alignment, and a shared national vision.

It urged participants to return to their organisations as change agents, translating insights into actionable policies and programmes capable of delivering tangible socio-economic benefits and environmental protection.

IMION maintained that the ocean must be viewed not merely as a resource but as a legacy, warning that present decisions will ultimately define how future generations experience and benefit from maritime wealth.

The institute expressed profound appreciation to its resource persons, partners, and participating organisations, noting that their technical inputs and institutional support enriched the programme and strengthened its outcomes.

IMION specifically highlighted the contributions of stakeholders across the public and private sectors, describing their involvement as critical to building a cohesive and informed maritime community.

It reaffirmed its mandate to promote excellence in maritime knowledge, deepen interagency cooperation, and sustain capacity building initiatives that will strengthen both national and regional ocean governance frameworks.

IMION also acknowledged the support of the Chief of the Naval Staff, stating that his commitment was instrumental to the successful delivery of the executive programme.

The institute further commended members of its governing board for their presence and contributions, both physical and virtual, describing their guidance as pivotal to the programme’s success.

In formally declaring the programme closed, IMION expressed confidence that the knowledge shared and partnerships forged would catalyse meaningful progress in Nigeria’s blue economy trajectory.

Participants echoed IMION’s optimism, with a representative from NIMASA, Mrs Lilian Ode, stating that the programme provided deeper clarity on the blue economy as Nigeria’s emerging growth frontier, while highlighting ongoing sensitisation efforts targeting grassroots communities.

IMION reported that private sector stakeholders also underscored the importance of community engagement and security, with Dangote Ports Operations noting that inclusive development and awareness are essential to safeguarding investments and ensuring sustainability.

From the legal and advisory perspective, IMION conveyed that its consultant and resource person, Mrs Mfon Ekong Usoro, observed that the institute has recorded remarkable growth within a short period, attracting high-level participation and advancing the shift from resource exploitation to sustainability-driven blue economy principles.

IMION added that contributions from security and border management stakeholders reinforced the need for political will, awareness creation, and coordinated implementation, noting that the blue economy holds transformative potential for national development.

The institute concluded that the unveiling of its official newsletter during the programme marks a strategic step toward sustaining professional discourse and expanding engagement within Nigeria and the wider Gulf of Guinea maritime domain.

IMION affirmed that the success of the executive programme signals growing national alignment around the blue economy, expressing optimism that the momentum generated will translate into enduring policy impact and economic growth.

Troops of the 81 Division Nigerian Army have smashed an illegal petroleum bunkering syndicate operating within the Lekki Free Zone axis near the Dangote Refinery in Lagos State, arresting 14 suspects and recovering a tanker, vehicles and heavy equipment used for the illicit operation.

The operation, according to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 81 Division Nigerian Army, was executed in the early hours of 16 April 2026 at about 0130 hours following credible and actionable intelligence.

Troops reportedly arrived at the scene while the suspects were actively siphoning petroleum products, catching them mid operation as they attempted to execute what appeared to be a well coordinated theft network.

Investigations at the site revealed that the criminals had illegally connected a long pipeline from the high sea into a concealed tanker position deep within a bush area, enabling uninterrupted diversion of petroleum products.

The syndicate was further found to be using a generator powered pumping machine to transfer the stolen products into a tanker truck, underscoring the sophistication and scale of the illegal operation.

On sighting the approaching soldiers, the suspects attempted to flee in different directions, but were swiftly overpowered and arrested in a rapid response that neutralised their escape efforts.

Items recovered from the scene include a petroleum tanker truck already loaded with siphoned products, a Lexus Highlander SUV with registration number APP 67 JQ Lagos, and a Ford Hilux vehicle with registration number BY 117 FST Lagos.

Troops also recovered a 40HP boat engine, one pumping machine, and a large quantity of industrial hosepipes alongside other bunkering related equipment believed to have supported the illegal operation.

The 14 arrested suspects together with all recovered items are currently in the custody of 81 Division Nigerian Army where preliminary investigations are ongoing ahead of handover to appropriate prosecuting agencies in line with extant laws.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against crude oil theft and economic sabotage, especially around critical national infrastructure zones, while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

Mr. Yinka Folami has been returned unopposed as President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies for another two-year term, consolidating his leadership of the country’s foremost travel trade body.

The election, held at the Conference Hall of the University of Ibadan, attracted members from across the country and featured a mix of contested and uncontested positions, reflecting both continuity and competition within the association.

In the most keenly contested race, Mohammed Mustapha from the northern zone emerged as First Deputy National Vice President, securing 216 votes to defeat Pastor Chinyere Umeasiegbu, who polled 146 votes in a closely watched ballot.

Similarly, the position of National Public Relations Officer saw a competitive showdown, with Babatunde Adesokan clinching victory with 210 votes, defeating Gideon Oludayo. Adesokan, who previously served as Immediate Vice President for the South West Zone, defeated Gideon Oludayo, who garnered 150 votes.

Other positions, including that of Financial Secretary, kunle Oluwole were filled unopposed, while the office of Internal Auditor (Johnson Ugochukwu) was not due for election during the exercise.

The outcome of the polls is expected to strengthen the leadership structure of NANTA as it continues to play a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s travel and tourism industry, as well as advancing professional standards among its members.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), has called on the National Assembly to protect Nigeria’s airlines, saying that the carriers are operating under a slim profit margin.

Speaking on Thursday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, at the 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), the Area Manager, West and Central Africa, IATA, Dr. Samson Fatokun, said that the National Assembly needed to support the nation’s airlines in the area of legislation in order to remain in business.

He pointed out that for the airlines’ $2.5 billion, which represents 0.7 per cent contributions to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to be sustained and improved upon, the National Assembly needed to do more for the airlines.

According to him, the current ongoing crisis in the Middle East occasioned by the Israel/United States and Iran war, had distorted the 2026 projection for the industry globally, stressing that for any airline to continue seamless operations, they needed the support of the governments.

Fatokun explained that for instance, Jet A1 price in Africa was 17 per cent more expensive than anywhere else in the world, while taxes, charges and fees on the continent are between 12-15 per cent higher than the rest of the globe.

Fatokun pointed out further that air navigational charges on the continent is equally 10 per cent higher than the rest of the world, while carriers on the continent pay between six-10 per cent more for aircraft maintenance, insurance and cost of capital.

He added: “Besides, as of today, African governments still hold back $954 million of blocked funds. All these make air ticket prices higher in Africa than the rest of the world.

“The National Assembly should take up this with the Nigeria’s Federal government. We need to protect our carriers in Nigeria. The airlines are operating with very thing profit margin.”

Also, in his speech, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation, Abdulfatai Buhari, advised NANTA to officially write to the National Assembly on the challenges in the sub-sector and promised that the assembly would address them.

He also rebuked some of the foreign airlines that charge dollar-only transactions in Nigeria, saying that the practise was killing the nation’s economy.

He specifically mentioned Delta, United and Emirates airlines as culprits in this practise, noting that it was necessary NANTA to escalate this before the National Assembly in order to address it.

He said: “How can some foreign airlines that operate into Nigeria insist on dollar-only transactions in our country? Can any airline go to India and say it would not transact in rupee?

“If we don’t take steps, the National Assembly can’t address these challenges all alone. The government alone cannot tackle all these issues, without the cooperation of everyone.”

Earlier, the President of NANTA, Dr Yinka Folami said that it was necessary for all players in the sector, especially the travel agencies to extinguish touting in the sub-sector.

He assured that NANTA as a body would specifically take up this challenge and ensure sanity prevailed in the industry.

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has ordered an immediate halt to the transfer of cases from the Lagos and Ogun State Commands to the zonal headquarters, in a decisive move aimed at strengthening accountability and efficiency in criminal investigations.

The directive was issued at his maiden strategic security meeting with the Commissioners of Police in Lagos and Ogun states, where the operational climate and preparedness ahead of heightened political activities were critically reviewed.

Jimoh made it clear that henceforth, Commissioners of Police must take full responsibility for investigations within their jurisdictions, insisting that decentralised accountability would fast-track justice delivery and enhance public confidence.

He, however, noted that petitions alleging investigative lapses would not be ignored, stressing that such matters would still be referred back to the respective commands for immediate action and feedback to the zone.

According to the AIG, the zonal command would only intervene in situations requiring specialised expertise, deploying skilled investigators where necessary to support the commands and ensure swift resolution of complex cases.

On the security outlook, Jimoh expressed confidence that both Lagos and Ogun states remain stable, attributing the relative calm to proactive policing strategies and sustained operational successes recorded in recent months.

He directed the commands to scale up surveillance operations, intensify stop and search duties, and deepen intelligence-led policing to curb violent crimes and detect threats before they escalate.

The AIG emphasised that community policing remains central to crime prevention, noting that collaboration with residents, stakeholders and interest groups has continued to yield measurable results across the zone.

Reinforcing discipline, he charged officers to comply strictly with directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, warning that misconduct would attract firm sanctions, as demonstrated by the recent dismissal of five inspectors over breaches including human rights violations.

Jimoh commended the support of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Ogun State Government for sustained investment in policing logistics, while the Commissioners of Police in both states, including Fatai Tijani, reaffirmed their commitment to discipline, professionalism and the effective implementation of the new directives.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced a capacity-building programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven revenue generation, remittances and reconciliation as part of efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in public financial management.

The training, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel on Monday, 13 April 2026, brought together senior Customs officers, technology experts and representatives of legislative oversight committees.

The participation of lawmakers and Customs officials reflects growing collaboration between the Service and the National Assembly to strengthen accountability and adopt modern technological solutions in public administration.

Speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the Service remains committed to improving transparency in public accounting by adopting innovative technologies.

“We are united in our resolve to ensure transparency in public accounting. Technology continues to evolve and plays an important role in strengthening our operations. It has also helped us better understand patterns in international trade,” he said.

The CGC expressed optimism about the opportunities Artificial Intelligence offers to improve Customs operations, while noting that the Service operates within a broader national and international trade value chain.

“We want to reap the benefits of Artificial Intelligence collectively. I encourage participants to actively engage the facilitators, ask questions and take full advantage of the training,” he added.

In her welcome address, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, Kikelomo Adeola, described the programme as both timely and strategic.

“This training reflects our commitment to national development. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it is a technology we must embrace to strengthen our systems,” she said.

DCG Adeola explained that the programme was designed to address existing gaps in revenue management and to equip officers with the skills required to utilise AI tools to safeguard public funds.

She also acknowledged the presence of members of legislative oversight committees, describing it as evidence of a shared commitment to strengthening transparency and accountability.

“This synergy is important. I encourage participants to ask relevant questions and exchange ideas that will enhance the effectiveness of this initiative,” she added.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, Bamidele Salam, commended the NCS for its reform-oriented approach and commitment to innovation.

Customs is a global institution and plays a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s economic image. I commend the Comptroller-General for the progress made so far,” he said.

Salam described the training as a necessary intervention, noting that the application of Artificial Intelligence in public institutions within Nigeria remains limited.

“We must continue to build capacity because the effectiveness of any system ultimately depends on the people who operate it,” he added.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, Senator Ahmed Aliyu, called for sustained collaboration in building resilient systems capable of serving future generations.

“All hands must be on deck. We must build systems that will endure and continue to serve the nation for years to come,” he said, while commending the NCS for its ongoing reforms.

The training also featured a presentation by technology expert Bamidele Oyedeji, who highlighted the role of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing trade facilitation and improving operational efficiency within Customs administrations.

The programme underscores the Service’s determination to leverage emerging technologies to strengthen revenue assurance, transparency, and overall operational effectiveness.

In a bold demonstration of its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has extended its recently launched “Give Her Power” initiative to Ogun State, empowering 100 women with vocational tools designed to strengthen their economic independence and boost household income.

The outreach is part of the Bank’s nationwide rollout of the initiative, which was unveiled earlier in March during the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with partner organisations to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.

The event, which held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, featured the distribution of 50 sewing machines and 50 grinding machines to women engaged in microbusinesses across the state. It attracted market leaders, community stakeholders, and government officials, including the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye‑Oladapo.

Speaking at the event, the Regional Bank Head, Southwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Folaranmi Jemirin, reaffirmed that the Ogun outreach aligns with the Bank’s broader commitment to delivering practical, measurable empowerment interventions through the Give Her Power initiative.

“At Fidelity Bank, our approach to empowerment is simple; it must be practical, inclusive, and sustainable. When you empower a woman economically, the benefits extend to her family, her business, and the wider community. This outreach in Abeokuta is a continuation of the momentum created with the launch of the ‘Give Her Power’ initiative earlier in March,” Jemirin stated.

He explained that the “Give Her Power” initiative is anchored on HerFidelity, the Bank’s women-focused proposition, which provides financial literacy, business support, vocational training, mentorship, and wellness initiatives for women-led enterprises.

Jemirin further revealed that the bank had scaled its women-focused interventions nationwide, including the distribution of 1,000 sewing and grinding machines, the rollout of the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0, financial literacy sessions for girls, mentorship engagements, and hands-on skills training.

“This is more than a donation, it’s our vote of confidence in your ability to earn, grow, and create value within your communities,” he added, urging beneficiaries to make productive use of the items.

Commending the initiative, the state commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adeleye-Oladapo, described the programme as a meaningful shift from symbolic celebrations to tangible empowerment.

“This initiative goes beyond celebrating International Women’s Day. It delivers real opportunities for transformation. When you empower a woman, you empower a family and, ultimately, society,” she stated.

She further praised Fidelity Bank for complementing the efforts of the Ogun State Government under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun in advancing women’s economic empowerment.

She urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the equipment, stressing that the true value of the initiative lies in its long-term impact on livelihoods and community development.

The “Give Her Power” initiative stands out as a prime example of Fidelity Bank’s sustained commitment to building pathways for individuals to thrive, businesses to grow, and communities to prosper through inclusive empowerment programmes.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The Nigerian Navy on Wednesday signalled renewed commitment to the country’s blue economy drive as the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) unveiled the maiden edition of its newsletter at Apapa, Lagos.

Representing the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Doctrine Command, Rear Admiral Bob-Manuel Effiong, declared the event open, describing the moment as both symbolic and strategic for Nigeria’s maritime future.

Effiong said the unveiling of the IMION Newsletter marked a significant milestone in the institute’s institutional growth, noting that the publication would serve as a vital platform for communication, intellectual engagement and documentation of progress within the maritime sector.

He observed that the initiative reflects a deliberate effort by IMION to deepen stakeholder engagement, strengthen its identity and promote transparency across the maritime ecosystem.

According to him, beyond information sharing, the newsletter would inspire innovation, foster collaboration and reinforce excellence among maritime professionals and institutions.

The naval chief’s representative commended the Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (rtd), and the editorial team for what he described as foresight and dedication in delivering a publication of enduring relevance.

He expressed optimism that the newsletter would evolve into a credible reference point for policy discourse and sectoral development, urging stakeholders to actively contribute to its growth.

In his opening remarks, Udofia described the gathering as timely, stressing that Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in harnessing its vast marine and coastal resources.

He noted that with over 420 nautical miles of coastline and a strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria possesses immense potential in maritime trade, fisheries, offshore energy, tourism and marine biotechnology.

Udofia, however, warned that unlocking these opportunities requires strong governance, policy coordination and sustained collaboration among government agencies, security institutions, academia and private sector players.

He explained that the executive programme was designed to serve as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and strategic alignment, with a focus on translating policy into measurable outcomes.

Participants, he said, would explore key areas including policy frameworks, maritime security, environmental sustainability and investment opportunities within the blue economy.

He outlined core learning objectives of the programme to include understanding global blue economy frameworks, analysing Nigeria’s policy landscape, identifying key growth sectors and developing data driven strategies for sustainable implementation.

Udofia further disclosed plans by the institute to roll out specialised executive courses later in the year, targeting areas such as logistics, climate resilience, governance, maritime security and sustainable development.

He expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, the institute’s governing bodies, partners and stakeholders for their continued support, before formally declaring the programme open.

In a vote of thanks, the Executive Director, Administration, Commodore Isa Ahmed, described the event as a milestone achievement, applauding the leadership of IMION and the editorial team for bringing the maiden publication to fruition.

Ahmed also commended the Special Guest of Honour, distinguished guests and participants for their contributions, expressing confidence that the initiative would strengthen collaboration and drive future successes in Nigeria’s maritime domain.

The event attracted a wide array of stakeholders, including senior military officers, paramilitary agencies, maritime journalists and industry players, among them the Chief Staff Officer, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Nnamdi Christian Ekwom.